Leave your rock T-shirts, lighters and teenage angst at home, because this palooza isn't about fighting the man.

Today, a variety of UW students will participate in Israelpalooza, a midday celebration to enjoy the arts, food and cultural activities of Israel.

Just one day after the nation of Israel celebrates its 59th independence day, UW students may participate in this local celebration from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. on the HUB lawn.

Israelpalooza is a yearly event sponsored by eight student organizations, including Huskies for Israel, Sisterhood and the Black Student Association.

Avi Zellman, vice president of Huskies for Israel, said the event has been a key part of celebrating Israeli culture on the UW campus and has traditionally drawn a large crowd.

"In the past, we have had literally hundreds participate," he said.

The day's activities include Hebrew beading, painting, backgammon, a hookah tent and free henna tattoos. Café Kineret will be cooking falafels and Turkish coffee will be served.

"We want to highlight Israel's diverse community," Zellman said.

Jason Okrent, president of Huskies for Israel, hopes the celebration will demonstrate a positive example of Israeli culture.

"We want to spread the idea that Israel is more than just a place of conflict," he said. "This event will help to show everyone a very ancient and imbued heritage."

When it comes to showcasing Israeli culture, Huskies for Israel has been involved in educating members of the UW campus and local community.

"Our mission is to engage students about Israel through cultural, educational and political activities and events on campus," Okrent said.

The group has set up film screenings and guest lectures and holds community-wide rallies for Israel. It has even sent students lobbyists to Washington, D.C.

At this point, however, the group's focus is to encourage students to take part in today's event, members said.

Rebecca Alvy, vice president of campus affairs for sisterhood, also hopes students will join the celebration.

"The event is to celebrate Israel, and anyone who wants to come out and celebrate should," she said. "We are not trying to push any beliefs — just come and have a good time."

For Zellman, the event is a way to shift people's thoughts away from the negative and teach them about a nation rich in diversity and home to many faiths.

"For the UW community, we want to take the focus away from the overbearing political conflict to focus on food, art, dancing and the contributions Israel has made to the world," he said.

Reach contributing writer Brad Zimmerman at news@thedaily.washington.edu.